Detachable coupling for a remote inspection device

ABSTRACT

A remote inspection device is provided for inspecting visually obscured locations. The device is generally comprised of a imager housing and a display housing disposed on opposite ends of a modular, flexible cable. An imaging device and one or more light sources are embedded in the end of the cylindrical imager housing. A display housing is coupled to the other end of the flexible cable and configured to be grasped by a user of the device. A display device supported by the display housing receives a video signal from the imaging device and converts the video signal to a video image. The flexible cable can be removably attached to other components with a detachable coupling.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/645,276 filed on Dec. 22, 2006 which claims the benefit of U.S.Patent Application No. 60/848,586 filed on Sep. 29, 2006 and is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/480,329filed on Jun. 30, 2006. The disclosures of the above applications areincorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to borescopes and video scopes.

BACKGROUND

Borescopes and video scopes for inspecting visually obscured locationsare typically tailored for particular applications. For instance, someborescopes have been tailored for use by plumbers to inspect pipes anddrains. Likewise, other types of borescopes have been tailored for useby mechanics to inspect interior compartments of machinery beingrepaired. Special features and functions associated with theseapplications have driven up the cost for these types of devices. Absentfrom the marketplace is a simplified, inexpensive and yet versatileinspection device which may be marketed to the general public.

The statements in this section merely provide background informationrelated to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a detachable coupling for selectivelyattaching first and second cables of a remote inspection device. Thedetachable coupling includes a first ferrule component provided over thefirst cable and having an end cap extending over an end of the firstcable. The first ferrule component is an electrical insulator. Thedetachable coupling further includes a first casing engaging the firstferrule component, the first casing and the first ferrule componentbeing secured to the first cable. The first ferrule component provides aseal to inhibit fluid communication between the first casing and thefirst cable and electrically isolates the first casing from the firstcable. The detachable coupling also includes a first electricalconnector supported within the first casing and electrically connectedto wires in the first cable. The detachable coupling includes a secondferrule component provided over the second cable and having an end capextending over an end of the second cable, The second ferrule componentis an electrical insulator. The detachable coupling further includes asecond casing engaging the second ferrule component, the second casingand the second ferrule component being secured to the second cable. Thesecond ferrule component provides a seal to inhibit fluid communicationbetween the second casing and the second cable and electrically isolatesthe second casing from the second cable. The detachable coupling alsoincludes a second electrical connector supported within the secondcasing and electrically connected to wires in the second cable. Thefirst and second casings engage and inhibit relative rotationtherebetween, and the first and second electrical connectors engage andelectrically connect the wires of the first and second cables.

The present disclosure further provides another detachable coupling forselectively attaching first and second cables of a remote inspectiondevice. The detachable coupling includes a first assembly attached tothe first cable and a second assembly attached to the second cable. Thefirst assembly includes a ferrule component provided over the firstcable. The ferrule component has a generally cylindrical main body andan end cap extending over an end of the first cable. The ferrulecomponent further has at least one protrusion extending from an outersurface of the main body. The ferrule component is an electricalinsulator and is deformable. The first assembly further includes acasing engaging and deforming the ferrule component. The casing has agenerally cylindrical portion extending over the ferrule component. Thecylindrical portion has an inside surface with at least one recesscomplementary to the at least one protrusion. The at least oneprotrusion and the at least one recess engage to inhibit relative axialmovement between the ferrule component and the casing. The ferrulecomponent and the casing are secured to the first cable. The ferrulecomponent provides a seal to inhibit fluid communication between thecasing and the first cable and electrically isolates the casing from thefirst cable. The first assembly also includes an electrical connectorsupported within the casing and electrically connected to wires in thefirst cable. The first and second assemblies selectively engage so as toinhibit relative rotation therebetween and to electrically connect thewires in the first cable to wires in the second cable.

The present disclosure further provides a remote inspection device. Theremote inspection device includes an imager housing including an imagingdevice, a display housing including a display device and a portablepower source, and a first cable having a first end coupled to the imagerhousing and a second end coupled to the display housing. The first cablehas a plurality of wires and an outer jacket. The wires operably connectthe portable power source and the imaging device. The wires furtheroperably connect the imaging device and the display device. The remoteinspection device further includes a detachable coupling connecting thefirst cable and the imager housing. The detachable coupling includes afirst assembly fixed to the first end said first cable and a secondassembly coupled to the imager housing. The first assembly includes afirst ferrule component provided over the first cable and having an endcap extending over the first end of the first cable. The first ferrulecomponent is an electrical insulator. The first assembly furtherincludes a first casing engaging the first ferrule component, the firstcasing and the first ferrule component being secured to the first cable.The first ferrule component provides a seal to inhibit fluidcommunication between the first casing and the first cable andelectrically isolates the first casing from the first cable. The firstassembly also includes a first electrical connector supported within thefirst casing and electrically connected to the wires.

The present disclosure further provides a method of assembling adetachable coupling for a remote inspection device. The method includesproviding a first ferrule component on a first cable and disposing afirst casing over the first ferrule component and the first cable. Themethod further includes deforming the first ferrule component with thefirst casing, the first ferrule component providing a seal between thefirst casing and the first cable to inhibit fluid communicationtherebetween. The method also includes supporting a first electricalconnector in the first casing, electrically connecting wires in thefirst cable and the first electrical connector, filling a space withinthe first casing between the first cable and the first electricalcomponent with an insulating material, and mating the first casing andthe first electrical connector with a complementary assembly attached toa second cable, the first and second cables being mechanically andelectrically connected.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the descriptionprovided herein. It should be understood that the description andspecific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and arenot intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary inspection device;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are exploded views of exemplary imager housings of theinspection device;

FIG. 2C is a diagram depicting an exemplary piping structure for guidinglight through the imager housing;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a imager housing having a sealableuser adjustable focus mechanism;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional schematic view of the imager housing;

FIGS. 5A-5C are perspective views of exemplary attachments for theimager housing;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view illustrating the engagement area for anexemplary attachment on the imager housing;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary attachmentcoupled to the imager housing;

FIG. 6C is a perspective view illustrating an alternative coupling meansfor attaching an attachment to the imager housing;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary display housing;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are fragmentary sectional views illustrating thecoupling of the flexible cable to the display housing;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of the operational components which comprisethe inspection device;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a modular design for theinspection device;

FIGS. 11A and 11B are cross-sectional view of a detachable couplingwhich may be used in the inspection device;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a secondary connector which may beused with the inspection device;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another exemplary detachable coupling;

FIGS. 14A-14F are cross sectional views illustrating the assemblyprocess for the detachable coupling;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the detachable coupling;

FIGS. 16A-16B are perspective views of a portion of another exemplarydetachable coupling; and

FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view illustrating the portion of thedetachable coupling of FIG. 16B.

The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and arenot intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is notintended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. Itshould be understood that throughout the drawings, correspondingreference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a remote inspection device10. The remote inspection device 10 is generally comprised of threeprimary components: a display housing 12, an imager housing 14 and aflexible cable 16 interconnecting the display housing 12 to the imagerhousing 14. The flexible cable 16 may be bent or curved as it is pushedinto visually obscured areas, such as pipes, walls, etc. In an exemplaryembodiment, the flexible cable 16 is a ribbed cylindrical conduit havingan outer diameter in the range of 1 cm. The conduit can be made ofeither a metal, plastic or composite material. Smaller or largerdiameters may be suitable depending on the application. Likewise, othersuitable constructions for the flexible cable 16 are also contemplatedby this disclosure.

The imager housing 14 is coupled to a distal end of the flexible cable16. In the exemplary embodiment, the imager housing 14 is asubstantially cylindrical shape that is concentrically aligned with theflexible cable 16. However, it is envisioned that the imager housing 14may take other shapes. In any case, an outer diameter of the cylindricalimager housing 14 is preferably sized to be substantially equal to orgreater than the outer diameter of the flexible cable 16.

With reference to FIG. 2A, the imager housing 14 is configured to housean imaging device 22 and one or more light sources 24. The imagingdevice 22 is embedded in an outwardly facing end of the imager housing.In particular, the imaging device 22 is coupled to an end of a circuitboard 21 which in turn slides into an internal cavity of the imagerhousing 14. The imaging device 22 is operable to capture an image of aviewing area proximate to the outwardly facing end of the imager housing14. The imaging device 22 may be implemented using a charge-coupleddevice (CCD), a CMOS-based image sensor, a digital image sensor, orother types of commercially available imaging devices. Image data isfocused onto the imaging device 22 by a lens assembly 23 positionedadjacent to the imaging device 22.

In the exemplary embodiment, the imaging device 22 and lens assembly 23provides a fixed focus at approximately four to ten inches from the endof the imager housing. However, it is envisioned that the inspectiondevice 10 may provide an adjustable focus. For instance, a user adjustedfocus mechanism 30 is shown in FIG. 3. Through a fine mechanical screwthread or any similar movement device, the lens assembly 23 can be movedaxially nearer or farther from the imager 22. This movement changes thefocus of the imaging device. At the same time, a seal 31 must beprovided to prevent foreign materials from entering the mechanism. Inanother instance, the imaging device and lens assembly may be replacedwith an auto-focus camera module. In this instance, a more sophisticatedprocessor and drive motor assembly is needed to drive the camera module.

With continued reference to FIG. 2A, one or more light sources 24 forilluminating the viewing area are also electrically connected to thecircuit board 21. In the exemplary embodiment, two light emitting diodes(LEDs) are disposed along the perimeter of the imaging device 22. TheLEDs protrude outwardly from the circuit board such that the imagingdevice 22 and lens assembly 23 is recessed between the two LEDs as shownin FIG. 4. The LEDs may optionally be connected to a separate circuitboard residing in the camera head. Alternatively, the LEDs 24 may berecessed behind the imaging device 22 and/or lens assembly, such thatlight from the LEDs is transferred or piped to an emitting point whichextends above and beyond the imaging device 22. An exemplary pipingstructure is shown in FIG. 2C. In either instance, recessing the imagingdevice and lens assembly behind the light emitting point reduces theamount of backscattered or interfering light from the LEDs.

A transparent cap 26 encloses these components within the imager housing14. For instance, the cap 26 may be made of an acrylic material thatenables light to project from the LEDs into the viewing area and returnfrom the viewing area to the imaging device. Other types of durabletransparent material may be used in place of acrylic. In the exemplaryembodiment, each of the protruding LEDs is encased by a nipple 27 formedin the cap 26. To sufficiently illuminate the viewing area, each LEDshould preferably project light proximate to the view angle of theimager at a 60 degree view angle away from the image housing 14. LEDshaving such a view angle may be used. However, LED's having a 132 degreeview angle provide a more inexpensive alternative. In this case, theends of the nipples 27 may be curved to form a lens which focuses thelight from the LEDs to a 60 degree view angle as shown in FIG. 4. Thus,the cap 26 may also serve as a lens for the light sources. The cap 26 ispreferably ultrasonically welded to the outwardly facing end of theimager housing 14, thereby creating a sealed enclosure; otherwise,techniques for sealing the cap to the imager housing are alsocontemplated. An alternative embodiment for the imager housing 14 isshown in FIG. 2B.

In one exemplary embodiment, the imager housing 14 couples to theflexible cable 16 by way of a threaded sleeve 29 integrally formed atone end of the imager housing 14. The threaded sleeve 29 on the imagerhousing screws into a grooved portion from along an interior surface ofa coupling formed on the distal end of the flexible cable. The sleeveand coupling each provide an axial passageway for a plurality of wiresthat are electrically connected between the circuit board in the imagerhousing and the display housing. The plurality of wires may or may notbe further encased in a protective cable.

With reference to FIGS. 5A-5C, an attachment 51 may be removably coupledto the imager housing 14. The attachment 51 is generally comprised of afinger portion 53 which extends in parallel to the axis of thecylindrical imager housing and beyond an outwardly facing end of thehousing, and a clip 52 that attaches to the cylindrical housing. Adistal end of the finger portion 53 may be further configured toretrieve or otherwise manipulate objects proximate to the end of theimager housing 14. For instance, the attachment 51 may be configuredwith a hook as shown in FIG. 5A or with a magnet as shown in FIG. 5B. Inanother instance, the attachment may be a mirror as shown in FIG. 5C.Other configurations, such as a loop, lance, or cutting device, are alsocontemplated by this disclosure.

In an exemplary embodiment, the imager housing provides an engagementarea for the attachment 51 as shown in FIG. 6A. The engagement area iscomprised of an annular recess 62 formed in the outer surface of theimager housing. Within the annular recess, two opposing cutaways 62 arealso formed, where each cutaway 62 defines a recessed rectangular planarsurface 63 having a longitudinal axis 64 in parallel with the axis ofthe cylindrical imager housing. A radial surface 66 is formed betweenthe two opposing cutaways. The clip 52 is further defined as acylindrical band 54 having a radial gap 55 formed therein, such that theradial gap 55 of the clip 52 is slightly larger than the remainingradial surface 66. In addition, the annular recess 62 is sized toreceive the cylindrical band 54 of the clip. The engagement area mayfurther include a locking groove 67 formed in the radial surface thereofand extends in parallel to the axis of the cylindrical imager housing.The locking groove 67 is sized to receive the finger portion 53 of theattachment.

Referring to FIG. 6B, the attachment 51 is coupled to the imager housing14 by sliding the cylindrical band 54 over the recessed portion of thehousing 14 and into the annular recess 62. Recessed into the annularrecess prevent the attachment from sliding forward or backwards alongthe imaging housing. The attachment 51 is then rotated 90 degrees aroundthe axis of the housing until the finger portion 53 of the attachment 51is recessed into the locking groove, thereby preventing attachment 51from rotating about. The spring load of the band pulls the fingerportion into the locking groove 67 to further prevent detachment fromthe imager housing. It is understood that the clip mechanism is anon-limiting example of how the attachment may be removably coupled tothe imager housing. FIG. 6C illustrates a threaded coupling between theattachment 51 and the imager housing 14. Other coupling means, such asmagnetic, are also contemplate by this disclosure.

Referring to FIG. 7, the display housing 12 is coupled to a proximateend of the flexible cable 16. In an exemplary embodiment, the displayhousing 12 is in the shape of a pistol. Specifically, the displayhousing 12 includes a handle portion 71 configured to be grasped by anoperator of the device and a protruding portion 72 extending away fromthe user when grasped by the user, such that the protruding portionforms an obtuse angle relative to the handle portion of the housingdisplay. Other handheld configurations for the display housing also fallwithin the broader aspects of this disclosure.

In one exemplary embodiment, a threaded male connector 82 formed on theproximate end of the flexible cable 16 is used to couple the cable tothe display housing 12 as best seen in FIGS. 8A and 8B. In this case, aknurled nut 84 is fixed with the nut retainer 86. The male connector 82is screwed into the knurled nut 84, thereby coupling the flexible cable16 to the nut retainer 86. The nut retainer is then attached into theprotruding portion of the display housing 12. Other types of connectionsare contemplated by this disclosure.

Returning to FIG. 7, the display housing 12 is configured to support theremaining operational components of the inspection device. In theexemplary embodiment, the operational components include a displaydevice 73, an interface board 74, a power switch 75 and a power source76 (i.e., 4 AA alkaline batteries). The display device 73 is preferablyorientated towards the operator as the operator grasps the handleportion 71 of the device. Although a liquid crystal display is presentlypreferred, it is understood that other types of display devices, such acathode ray tube or a LED display, may also be used.

Operational aspects of the inspection device are better understood froma schematic provided in FIG. 9. The power switch 75 is interposedbetween the power source 76 and the remaining operational components.When actuated by an operator to an ON position, power is supplied fromthe power source 76 to the interface board 74. The interface board 74 inturn powers the display device 73 and the imaging device 22.

In the exemplary embodiment, the power switch 75 is further operable tocontrol the intensity of the LEDs. To do so, power is also supplied toan LED interface board 91. The LED interface board 91 in turn sends acontrol signal to the LEDs based on the setting of the power switch 75.As the dial is rotated further away from an ON position, the intensityof the LEDs is increased. In this way, the operator can adjust theillumination of the viewing area, thereby improving the quality of theacquired images. Alternative embodiments of the inspection device mayemploy other user actuated controls. For example, the inspection devicemay include controls for the contrast of the display device, on-screendisplay or for a zoom function of the imaging device.

Once powered on, the imaging device 22 begins capturing images andtransmitting the image data as a video signal to a video decoder 92residing on the interface board 74. The video decoder 92 decodes thevideo signal and passes it through another interface to the displaydevice 73. The display device 73 is then operable to display the videoimages to the operator.

In the exemplary embodiment, the imager housing is connected by a fourwire twisted pair cable to the display housing. Functions for each wireare specified as follows: a power wire for delivering electrical powerto the imaging device, a video wire for transporting the captured imagedata (e.g., a NTSC signal) from the imager back to the interface board,a control signal for varying the intensity of the light source and aground connection. It is envisioned that more or less wires may beneeded to support different functionality.

In an alternative embodiment, the inspection device may provide an imageself-righting feature. As the camera head is pushed into inspectionareas, it may get twisted so that the images displayed to the operatorare disoriented. To orientate the images, an accelerometer is placed inthe imager housing. The accelerometer is operable to report the positionof the camera head in relation to a sensed gravity vector. Given theposition data and the image data, a microprocessor residing in thedisplay housing can apply a known rotation algorithm (e.g., rotationmatrix) to the image data. In this way, the image data is alwayspresented upright to the operator.

In another aspect of this disclosure, the remote inspection device maybe designed to be modular as shown in FIG. 10. In general, the moreexpensive processing components, such that the LCD, are disposed in thedisplay housing; whereas, lesser expensive components are used toconstruct the imager housing. Modularity enables the lesser expensivecomponents to be interchanged or replaced as needed.

For example, a detachable coupling between the imager housing and theflexible cable enables imager housings of varying sizes to be used withthe same display housing. The flexibility allowed by the modularity ofthis device also allows the cost efficient manufacture of easilyreplaceable imager heads that could be fixed at any desired sphericalorientation in regard to the central axis of the cable or the imagerhead. A first imager head 14′ may be constructed as described above withthe imaging device orientated along the central axis of the imager head;whereas, a second imager head 14″ provides an imaging device orientatedat 90 degrees to the central axis of the imager head. Imager heads haveother orientations are also contemplated.

Likewise, a second detachable coupling between the display housing andthe flexible cable enables the use of different types of cables whileretaining the same imager housing. Depending on the application, cablesmay vary in length from 3 feet to more than 50 feet and may vary indiameter from less than an inch to a couple of inches in diameter.Moreover, different cables may have different flexibilities,stiffnesses, spring tensions, obedient cable properties, tape measurematerial similarities, fish-tape or fish-stick similarities, push-cablesimilarities, etc. It is envisioned that the remote inspections devicemay be sold as a kit having a display housing 12, at least one imagerhead 14 and a set of different cables having different constructs.Additional imager heads may be included in the kit or sold individually.

Given an adaptable display housing, users may configure the inspectiondevice to meet their particular needs. For a first task, a first type ofcable attachment along with a particular image head may be selected andcoupled to the display housing. For a different task, the user maydetach the image head and attach an image head which provides adifferent function. Alternatively, the user may also need to replace thecable attachment. In this case, the user further detaches the first typeof cable attachment and attaches a second type of cable attachmenthaving a different construct than the first type of cable attachment.For example, the second type of cable attachment may have a differentlength, diameter, or flexibility than the first type of cableattachment. The user then selects and attaches a suitable image head tothe second type of cable attachment. In this way, the more expensivedisplay housing may be configured with different and less expensivecomponents tailored to a particular task.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate an exemplary detachable coupling 110 whichmay be interposed between the imager housing 14 and the flexible cable16. On the camera side, a cylindrical sleeve 29 having an outer threadedportion protrudes from the housing. A male connector 112 is fixed withinan axial passageway of the threaded sleeve. The male connector 112 is inturn electrically connected via the applicable wires to the imagingdevice and light sources. On the other hand, a corresponding femaleconnector 114 is coupled to the distal end of the flexible cable 16.Likewise, the female connector 114 is electrically connected to wireswhich extend through the flexible cable 16 to the display housing. Byplugging the male connector 112 into the female connector 114, theimager housing 14 is electrically connected to the flexible cable 16.

To provide a sealed coupling, a cylindrical coupling 116 is alsodisposed on the distal end of the flexible cable 16. The cylindricalcoupling 116 further provides an internal grooved portion 117 whichmates with the threaded portion of the sleeve on the imager housing. Tocomplete the coupling, the cylindrical coupling 116 is slid over thefemale connector and screwed onto the threaded portion of the sleeve,thereby encasing the electrical connection within the coupling. An0-ring 119 or other sealing component is preferably disposed between theinner surface of the cylindrical coupling and the outer surface of theflexible cable. A detachable coupling having a similar construction maybe interposed between flexible cable and the display housing. Moreover,it is envisioned that other types of detachable couplings may beemployed to achieve the modularity.

In an alternative embodiment, a secondary connector 120 may beinterposed between the imager housing 14 and the flexible cable 16 asshown in FIG. 12. The secondary connector 120 is designed to be moreflexible than the flexible cable, thereby providing strain relief as theimager housing is snaked into an inspection area. In the exemplaryembodiment, a corrugated outer surface of the secondary connector 120provides its flexibility. On the camera side, a cylindrical sleevehaving an outer threaded portion protrudes from the housing. In anexemplary embodiment, one end of the secondary connector 120 isovermolded around the cylindrical sleeve to form a coupling between theimage housing 14 and the secondary connector. The other side of thesecondary connector can be constructed in manner described above forcoupling to the flexible cable. Again, this type of secondary connectormay also be interposed between the other end of the flexible cable andthe display housing.

FIGS. 13-15 illustrate another exemplary detachable coupling 200 and theassembly thereof. According to the principles of the present disclosure,coupling 200 may be used to interconnect different components ofinspection device 10. By way of non-limiting example, coupling 200 canattach imager housing 14 and flexible cable 16 as illustrated.

In this exemplary illustration of flexible cable 16, wires 220 arecovered by an outer jacket 222, and an end 224 is defined. It should beunderstood that, according to the principles of the present disclosure,flexible cable 16 can have a variety of components and configurations.

With particular reference to FIGS. 14A-14D, coupling 200 includes adeformable ferrule or ferrule component 202, an exterior metal connectoror casing 206, and an electrical connector 208 in a first assembly ofcomponents associated with flexible cable 16. It is to be understoodthat, according to the principles of the present disclosure, coupling200 and the components thereof (e.g. ferrule components, casings, andelectrical connectors) can vary in many ways. Accordingly, it should beunderstood that the descriptions herein of coupling 200 and thecomponents thereof are exemplary in nature.

Exemplary ferrule 202 has a generally annular shape and is disposedaround flexible cable 16 with an inside surface 230 engaging outerjacket 222. Ferrule 202 further includes an end cap 232 engaged with end224 of flexible cable 16. Wires 220 extend through an aperture 234 inend cap 232. End cap 232 provides for a fixed position of ferrule 202along the length of flexible cable 16. Furthermore, end cap 232 providesfor simple assembly of ferrule 202 and flexible cable 16, as ferrule 202is disposed on flexible cable 16 until end 224 engages end cap 232.

Additionally, ferrule 202 includes an outside surface 236 configured toengage with casing 206. Outside surface 236 can have a diameter D1 sizedto provide an interference fit with casing 206, as explained in moredetail herein. Ferrule 202 also has a sloped end surface 238 at the endthereof opposite end cap 232. As explained in more detail herein, slopedend surface 238 helps facilitate the movement of coupling 200 throughconfined spaces. Furthermore, ferrule 202 has protrusions 240 extendingfrom outside surface 236. As illustrated in the Figures, protrusions 240can be in the form of ridges or splines extending around outer surface236. As explained in more detail herein, protrusions 240 engage withcomplementary features of casing 206 to prevent relative axial movementtherebetween. As used herein, the term “axial movement” refers tomovement along the length of components of coupling 200.

Ferrule 202 is preferably comprised of an electrically insulatingmaterial such as plastic or nylon. As explained herein, in combinationwith other components of coupling 200, ferrule 202 electrically isolatescoupling 200 from flexible cable 16 and, thus, the remainder ofinspection device 10. Furthermore, as a diameter D1 of outside surface236 can be sized to provide an interference fit with casing 206, ferrule202 can be made of a deformable material.

Exemplary casing 206 includes a cylindrical portion 250 which isdisposed over ferrule 202 and flexible cable 16. Cylindrical portion 250of casing 206 and ferrule 202 have a sealed engagement to prevent fluidcommunication therebetween (e.g., to provide a watertight seal). Theengagement of ferrule 202 and cylindrical portion 250 also provide asealed engagement between ferrule 202 and flexible cable 16. Therefore,coupling 200 is watertight between flexible cable 16 and cylindricalportion 250 of casing 206. For example, ferrule 202 can be press fitinto cylindrical portion 250, as an inside surface 252 of cylindricalportion 250 can have a diameter D2 smaller than the diameter D1 of acomplementary portion of outside surface 236 of ferrule 202. As such,casing 206 can deform ferrule 202. Furthermore, casing 206 has aplurality of recesses 254 formed in inside surface 252 complementary toprotrusions 240. Ferrule 202 is swaged into casing 206 so thatprotrusions 240 extend into recesses 254. The engagement of protrusions240 and recesses 254 prevent relative axial movement between ferrule 202and casing 206. As illustrated in the Figures, recesses 254 can be inthe form of grooves extending around inside surface 252.

Casing 206 further includes a main portion 260 having an inside surface262 and an outside surface 264. As described in more detail herein,inside surface 262 is configured to support electrical connector 208.Furthermore, as explained in more detail herein, a sloped portion 266 ofoutside surface 264 helps facilitate the movement of coupling 200through confined spaces. Main portion 260 also has a tab 268 extendingtherefrom. Tab 268 is configured to prevent relative rotation withincoupling 200, as explained in more detail herein.

Exemplary electrical connector 208 is disposed within casing 206 andsupported by inside surface 262. For example, electrical connector 208can be sized to have an interference fit with a portion of insidesurface 262 to hold electrical connector 208 in place during assembly.Prongs 280 extend from electrical connector 208 and are electricallyconnected to wires 220. For example, wires 220 are soldered toelectrical connector 208. Furthermore, electrical connector 208 isolateswires 220 and prongs 280 from casing 206. It should be understood thatelectrical connector 208 can have a variety of components andconfigurations and can be connected to wires 220 in a variety of ways.

Additionally, exemplary casing 206 can include a tap 282 proximateelectrical connector 208. Referring to FIGS. 14C-14D, a set screw 284 isdisposed within tap 282. Set screw 284 is tightened to engage electricalconnector 208 and to help secure electrical connector 208 relative tocasing 206.

With particular reference to FIG. 14C, a space 290 is defined withincasing 206 and between ferrule 202 and electrical connector 208 as thesecomponents are assembled together. Wires 220 extend through space 290from end 224 of flexible cable 16 to electrical connector 208. Referringto FIG. 14D, space 290 can be filled or backpotted with an insulating orbackpotting material 292. Casing 206 includes an aperture 294 incommunication with space 290. Set screw 284 engages electrical connector208 to hold electrical connector 208 in place, and insulating material292 is inserted through aperture 294 and fills space 290.

Insulating material 292 reduces and/or eliminates the airspace betweenferrule 202 and electrical connector 208. Insulating material 292electrically isolates the wires 220 extending through space 290 fromcasing 206 and serves as an adhesive to help hold electrical connector208 in place. Furthermore, insulating material 292 increases thewaterproofing, vibration resistance, and durability of coupling 200.According to the principles of the present disclosure, insulatingmaterial 292 can be made of a variety of materials. By way ofnon-limiting example, insulating material 292 can be a foam, epoxy, orglue. As such, insulating material 292 can be configured to harden inspace 290.

With particular reference to FIGS. 14E, 14F, and 15, coupling 200 canhave a second assembly of components associated with a cable segment 300of imager housing 14 similar to the first assembly of componentsassociated with flexible cable 16. Accordingly, it should be understoodthat the descriptions herein equally apply to similar components, unlessotherwise noted.

Coupling 200 has a ferrule 302 engaged with cable segment 300, a casing306 disposed over ferrule 302, and an electrical connector 308 supportedwithin casing 306 in the second assembly of components. A space 310 isdefined within casing 306 and between ferrule 302 and electricalconnector 308. Space 310 is filled with insulating material 312 througha aperture 314 in casing 306.

In contrast to casing 206 of the first assembly of coupling 200, casing306 does not include a tab extending therefrom. Rather, as shown in FIG.15, casing 306 has a recess 320 formed therein. Recess 320 iscomplementary to tab 268 of casing 206 and receives tab 268 when the twoassemblies of coupling 200 are mated together. With tab 268 disposed inrecess 320, casings 206, 306 are inhibited from rotating relative to oneanother. This connection provides for torque resistance within thecoupling 200.

Casing 306 also includes a threaded tap 322 and a set screw 324 disposedwithin tap 322. Similar to tap 282 and set screw 324 described herein,tap 322 is proximate electrical connector 308, and set screw 324 istightened to engage electrical connector 308 and to help secureelectrical connector 308 relative to casing 306.

Electrical connector 308 includes holes 330 formed herein. Holes 330 areelectrically connected to wires 332 of cable segment 300. Holes 330 havea complementary size and configuration to prongs 280 of electricalconnector 208. Holes 330 receive prongs 280 when the two assemblies ofcoupling 200 are mated together. Thereby, wires 220 of flexible cable 16and wires 332 of cable segment 300 are electrically connected.Furthermore, the ferrules, electrical connectors, and insulatingmaterial together electrically isolate casings 206, 306 from the wiresand, therefore, the rest of inspection device 10.

Both wires 220 of flexible cable 16 and wires 332 of cable segment 300are coiled together. This configuration provides flexibility to thelength of the electrical connection. Therefore, when flexible cable 16or cable segment 300 is bent during use, or otherwise when a variationin connection length is needed during assembly, both wires 220 and 332can accommodate a variety of connection lengths.

With particular reference to FIGS. 13 and 14F, coupling 200 furtherincludes a sleeve 340 disposed over and engaged with casings 206, 306.In particular, a threaded portion 342 on an inside surface 344 of sleeve340 engages a complementary threaded portion 348 on outside surface 236of casing 206. Furthermore, a shoulder 352 on inside surface 344 ofsleeve 340 engages a complementary shoulder 356 in casing 306.Therefore, sleeve 340 can be tightened onto casing 206 while engagingcasing 306 to secure the two assemblies of coupling 200 together.

Sleeve 340 can also have sealed engagements with casings 206, 306. Inparticular, a first sealing member 360 is supported by casing 206 andengages inside surface 344 of sleeve 340. Additionally, a second sealingmember 362 is supported by casing 306 and also engages inside surface344 of sleeve 340. These sealed engagements between casings 206, 306 andsleeve 340, together with the engagements between the casings and theferrules and the ferrules and the cables, make coupling 200 watertight.

Sleeve 340 further includes a sloped surface 370 proximate an endthereof. Sloped surface 370, together with sloped portion 266 of outsidesurface 264 of casing 206 and with the sloped surfaces of the ferrules,facilitates the movement of coupling 200 through confined spaces. Forexample, if the coupling 200 is maneuvering through a confined spacesuch as an angled plumbing fitting, the sloped surfaces inhibit coupling200 from engaging an edge or other protrusion in a manner which wouldimpede or prevent further travel of coupling 200.

Coupling 200 can vary in many ways. The components thereof can have avariety of configurations and can include a variety of materials.Accordingly, it should be understood that the description of coupling200 herein is exemplary in nature.

Referring to FIGS. 16-17, another exemplary deformable ferrule orferrule component 402 is illustrated. It should be understood thatferrule 402 can be included in a coupling according to the principles ofthe present disclosure such as is described herein with regard toferrules 202, 302.

Ferrule 402 is disposed over a cable 410. Cable 410 has an outer jacket422. Outer jacket 422 does not extend to an end 424 of cable 410. Assuch, an inner component 426 is exposed. Furthermore, wires (not shown)can extend through cable 410. Ferrule 402 has a generally annular shapeand is disposed around cable 410 with an inside surface 430 engagingouter jacket 422 and inner component 426. Ferrule 402 further includesan end cap 432 engaged with end 424. An aperture 434 is provided in endcap 432 so that wires (not shown) of cable 410 can extend therethrough.

Ferrule 402 also includes an outside surface 436. Outside surface 436 isconfigured to engage with a casing component in a similar way asdescribed herein with respect to ferrules 202, 302. Ferrule 402 also hasa sloped end surface 438 at the end thereof opposite end cap 432. Asexplained herein, such sloped surfaces help facilitate movement throughconfined spaces. Additionally, ferrule 402 has a single protrusion 440extending from outside surface 436. Similar to protrusions 240 offerrule 202 described herein, protrusion 440 engages with acomplementary feature of a casing or similar component to preventrelative axial movement therebetween. As illustrated in the Figures,protrusion 440 can be in the form of a ridge or spline extending aroundouter surface 436.

Ferrule 402 is overmolded onto cable 410. In particular, ferrule 402 ismolded into shape over cable 410 so that a portion of inside surface 430engages outer jacket 422 and another portion of inside surface 430engages inner component 426 with projections 442 extending from insidesurface 430 into grooves 444 of inner component 426. Therefore, ferrule402 and cable 410 have a sealed engagement which inhibits fluidcommunication therebetween. Ferrule 402 is also secured along to theaxial direction of cable 410. Furthermore, ferrule 402 is formed with akey portion 446 complementary to a key portion 448 of inner component426. The key portions engage and inhibit relative rotation of ferrule402 and inner component 426. As such, the key portions inhibit theeffects of rotational torque on the assembly.

It should be understood that ferrule 402 can otherwise be similarferrules 202, 302 described herein. For example, ferrule 402 can becomprised of an insulating material such as plastic or nylon.Furthermore, ferrule 402 can be a deformable material. As such, ferrule402 can be sized so as to provide an interference fit with a casing orsimilar component. Additionally, a casing or similar component can bedisposed over and engaged with ferrule 402 such that ferrule 402provides a seal between cable 410 and the casing or similar componentand such that ferrule 402 electrically isolates cable 410 and the casingor similar component.

1. A detachable coupling for selectively attaching first and second cables of a remote inspection device, the detachable coupling comprising: a first ferrule component provided over the first cable and having an end cap extending over an end of the first cable, said first ferrule component being an electrical insulator; a first casing engaging said first ferrule component, said first casing and said first ferrule component being secured to the first cable, said first ferrule component electrically isolating said first casing from the first cable; a first electrical connector supported within said first casing and electrically connected to wires in the first cable; a second ferrule component provided over the second cable and having an end cap extending over an end of the second cable, said second ferrule component being an electrical insulator; a second casing engaging said second ferrule component, said second casing and said second ferrule component being secured to the second cable, said second ferrule component electrically isolating said second casing from the second cable; and a second electrical connector supported within said second casing and electrically connected to wires in the second cable, wherein said first and second electrical connectors engage and electrically connect the wires of the first and second cables, wherein said first and second ferrule components each have at least one protrusion extending from an outer surface thereof, said first and second casings each have at least one recess formed in an inner surface thereof, said at least one protrusion of said first ferrule component extending into said at least one recess of said first casing and said at least one protrusion of said second ferrule component extending into said at least one recess of said second casing so as to inhibit relative axial movement therebetween. 